Bijal Kotecha was born and bred in Leicester.
She grew up in Melton Mowbray and this is where she went to school. Her family moved to Leicester itself after they finished school, and they have all remained in Leicester.
After school she qualified as a beauty therapist and hairdresser, although she did not continue this as her main profession, she still does this on this side, as well as party décor! In 2000, Bijal started working in accounts and have since remained in this field, and currently working at Peepul Centre doing her dream job.
As well as working hard she also like to play hard! She is a huge social butterfly and love to be the life and soul of any party or event. With her are her partners in crime, her two sons. Who are her life and the reason she is the best version of her.
1) Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
I have travelled to many countries and cities and without a doubt Leicester is my home. It is where all my friends and family are, where my memories and milestones have all happened. I know I can go anywhere in Leicester, and I will be greeted by family, friends, and love.
2) What are your proudest achievements?
"My proudest achievement in my life is being a mum to two boys! Being their rock and lifeline in this crazy world we live in. Watching them grow into fine young men has been my proudest moment, especially in a world when children want for everything. They are well grounded and family boys. I am also proud of how hard I have worked over the years and what I have achieved.“
3) What inspires you?
In my life my greatest inspiration is and has been my sons and my family. They make me want to be the best version of me, hardworking, caring, compassionate and their rock. My sons show me it is ok to have good and bad moments and that no matter what we are all in it together. My family inspire me to work hard and be there for them and my sons.
4) What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
The biggest obstacle I find in life is the belief that I CAN do it, and to believe in myself. I often doubt myself when working and although I know I can do it, it takes me a while to see and believe this. Often after the event/job is done. I think this sometimes slows me and holds me back from talking over the world!
5) Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
My biggest influence is my parents, they have brought me up and shown me how to be hard working, disciplined and organised. They taught me to be resilient and be responsible towards my actions and choices. Whenever there is a high or low point I turn to my parents for help and advice.
6) What is the best aspect about your current role?
The best aspect about my job is that I am living the dream! I have landed my dream job, where I am working with other people, from different walks of life, cultures and life experiences. These people have taught me more about the world, they have developed my understanding about the greater good and have added value into my life. Working at Peepul Centre has given me the opportunity to host events and also be part of a charity that helps venerable women in both UK and in Asia. I feel I have been given the opportunity to give back to people, helping people who need time and support be it from filling a form to helping with the food bank during the pandemic. Every day is a new experience and filled with new learning experiences.
7) And the worst?
I am yet to find the worst part! Every day is a new learning day!
8) What are your long-term goals?
My long-term goals is to continue to work hard and be someone my children and family are always proud of. I would like to work more into the charity side of Peepul Centre and give back to the community.
9) If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
If I was Prime Minister, I would make sure all the homeless people are given a place to stay, food to eat and support. Hubs would be set up nationwide and accessible to all walks of life. I would want to encourage everyone pays into a charity, that helps those in need, like we pay tax, a percentage is given to the poor. So, no one is ever without. 10) If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
Princess Diana, she to me is s woman who succeeded and flourished in a man’s world. When she had the biggest power against her, she did not hold back, she worked hard and kept her head held high. This is who I was aspired to be like. She gave love and support to everyone, regardless of your social or emotional background. There were no boundaries but compassion with Princess Diana. I would love to learn from her and if I could follow even in one of her footsteps it would be an honour and greatest achievement.
